Australian Kelpie is an Australian breed that is most likely a descendant of several old English herding breeds. Although many believe dingos may have been used in the breed’s development, this is still being debated. The breed has been used in Australia and North America as a versatile, sturdy working dog able to do anything needed on a farm or ranch.

The Australian Kelpie stands 17 to 20 inches tall and weighs between 25 and 50 pounds. They are strong for their size, with a body that is slightly longer than tall at the shoulder. He has prick ears, almond-shaped eyes, a broad chest, and a long tail. The undercoat is thick and the outer coat is short. Colors include black, blue, or red, all with or without tan markings.

Grooming the Australian Kelpie breed is easy; twice weekly brushings will suffice. During spring and fall when the shedding is at its worst, you may wish to brush a little more. This is a very active, high-energy breed with a strong desire to work. He needs vigorous exercise each and every day without fail. A bored Australian Kelpie will get into trouble. He needs to herd sheep, run alongside a bicycle, train on the agility course, or play flyball. Or better yet, let him do all of those things!

Australian Kelpie breed is the ultimate workaholic. Training should begin early, as this intelligent breed deserves a chance to use his brain. After basic obedience, keep training him. Teach him tricks and get him involved in dog sports. Early socialization will get him used to a variety of people and other dogs. The Australian Kelpie can be a protective watchdog. This breed needs an active owner who wants to do things with him, whether it’s farm work, dog sports, or hiking and backpacking.

The Australian Kelpie has a strong tendency to be a oneperson dog and, in a family situation, may ignore the other members of the family. Kelpies are usually good with other dogs and pets when raised with them. Cats may dislike being herded. Health concerns include eye problems.

comments

Share your Australian Kelpie story.

Scroll down, fill up the form and attach your best picture.

Note: Upload only Australian Kelpie picture or your picture with Australian Kelpie below - spammer's ip may be blocked.

The lithe, hard-muscled Australian Kelpie can work stock for many hours and cover long distances in heat and dust without giving in.
One of the smartest of all breeds, the Australian Kelpie can also be one of the most challenging to live with. His superior intellect, combined with his independence, intensity, and passion for keeping busy, are his best features — and the ones that make him unsuitable for most homes.
This sharp-eyed, quick-thinking, fanatical workaholic must be allowed to do his job with livestock, to learn advanced obedience or agility, to accompany you jogging or biking, or to chase balls or Frisbees.
Without physical and mental stimulation, Australian Kelpies become bored and hyperactive and will drive you crazy with obsessive, destructive behaviors as they seek creative outlets for their energy.
High intelligence means they learn quickly — including how to do anything they set their mind to. They are master escape artists (going over and under fences) and zealous gatherers of cars, bikes, joggers, cats, other dogs, livestock, and running children — circling, poking, pushing, and nipping if the person or animal or object doesn’t cooperate.
You must stay one step ahead of this brilliant breed, and most people are simply not up to the task.